There is an oil that has been a part of the skincare arsenal for ages now. While we’re usually afraid to use oil on our face, we are bringing details of one such oil that won’t leave you feeling like a glazed doughnut or clog your pores. It’s none other than the famous Moroccan oil which is also known as Argan oil. While the benefits of Moroccan oil are quite established for hair, we are going to talk about how it heals just about anything in our body. Swipe up to know how Argan oil can solve almost all your problems!
What is Argan oil?
Argan oil is traditionally known as the ‘Liquid gold’ and for all the right reasons. This oil is traditionally made from the kernels of the Argan trees. You may find these commonly in Southwestern Morocco. Argan oil has been used in cooking, haircare, and skincare. You can ingest it in capsule form which is readily available on the market. They are also used in cosmetics to make thoughtful makeup products. Many lipsticks, powder, foundations, etc are formulated with Argan oil in them. Argan oil is not too heavy nor light and suits every skin type. It has omega fatty acids, Vitamin E, and Linoleic acid, This makes it very moisturising and beneficial to preventing early signs of ageing. It is also non-comedogenic which makes it very suitable for all skin types. Enough about what it is, let’s understand how it can benefit your skin.
What are the benefits of Argan oil?
Argan oil solves many puzzles for our skin and hair, thanks to its properties. Here’s how Argan oil can benefit you-
1. Moisturising
Every skin needs moisture. Even oily and combination skin. Of course, the type of moisturiser will differ. But Argan oil is different. It can sit well with any and every skin type. It can strengthen your skin barrier since it is rich in Linoleic acid and fatty acids. It is also occlusive which is why it helps you prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL). So if you apply a few drops of Argan oil on damp skin then it can do wonders since it will effectively trap all that water into your cells.
2. Anti-inflammatory
Argan oil can soothe your skin due to the presence of omega fatty acids like Linoleic and Oleic acid. It also has a good shot of Antioxidants in it which helps to cut off the inflammatory response. This is the reason why Argan oil can also be used to relieve symptoms of skin conditions like Eczema, Rosacea, Dermatitis, Psoriasis, etc. We do recommend visiting a dermatologist before opting for Argan oil as your treatment ingredient for severe skin conditions.
3. Heal wounds
Healing wounds take Vitamin E to nourish and promote cell regeneration which will help in forming a new layer of skin tissue at the site of injury. This works well if you have burst a pimple and the skin has started to heal.
4. Reduces stretch marks
Stretch marks are common near the joins, bum, chest, etc. The best way to treat them is by massaging Argan oil which has proven to improve the elasticity of the skin. You can apply it every night after a shower and even during the daytime.
5. Reduce dandruff
The only way to treat dandruff is by moisturising your scalp from deep within. Argan oil has Omega fatty acids and Vitamins which help you do just that. If you mix a couple of drops of anti-bacterial oil with Argan oil and then apply it to your scalp, it can eliminate any pathogenic growth that could be contributing to dandruff.
6. Hair growth
It’s true. The phenols in Argan oil strengthen the hair follicle while Antioxidants in the oil promote hair growth so if you want to be strong you know what to apply. You can use a couple of drops of Argan oil after shampooing as a hair serum.
How to use Argan oil?
Argan oil is a multi-functional oil that can be used for your body, hair and even faces. Here’s how you can include Argan oil in multiple ways-
For hair
Argan oil works excellent for hair growth. It is often considered a spa treatment for your hair. Argan oil is also called Moroccan oil which is generally present in shampoos and hair serums to hydrate and nourish your hair strands. It is important to strengthen your hair follicles and scalp barrier to get good hair and the phenols in Argan oil do that so so well. You can use Argan oil as an overnight hair treatment oil.
Sublime recommends Pure By Priyanka Hair Serum. It has Argan Oil, Passion Fruit Extract, and Wheat Germ Extract and could be great for everyday usage after shampooing your hair.
You can also use WishCare 100% Pure Cold Pressed & Natural Moroccan Argan Oil as an overnight spa treatment for your hair. Follow it with shampooing in the morning.
For body
Argan oil can also be used to address the elasticity of your skin and make it smooth and firm. You can use it as a body massage oil an hour before you take a shower. It can be used as a body moisturiser as well. One might think that using oil as a moisturiser during the daytime can make you look like a greasy bear but no. Argan oil quickly absorbs into your skin and that makes it a good choice for your AM routine.
Sublime recommends Dr. Organic Moroccan Argan Oil Lotion. AM or PM, this guy is your warrior to moisturise your skin. It is formulated in such a way that Argan oil’s benefits are not stripped off while creating the lotion. We love it!
For face
Since it is non-comedogenic, you don’t even have to think twice before slathering it on your face. In case you’re afraid that it will make your face greasy then we assure you that it won’t. You just need a drop or two for your entire face. Press them gently and watch them disappear right into your skin. It quickly sits in your skin which helps you avoid greasiness.
Sublime recommends Skog Argan Oil. This is a bottle of magic. It can be used on your hair, body, and hair. For the face, press a couple of drops of Argan oil on the damp face to lock in all the moisture.
How to spot if it is pure Argan oil?
Let’s discuss the three key points that can help you figure out if it is pure Argan oil- Colour, Smell. Eventually, as you start using it, you can easily spot what is pure and what is completely stink-
1. Smell
Argan oil typically has a nutty smell. You may not like the smell but it is what it is. Argan oil is used in cooking too and that could smell different since Argan oil made for cooking is generally made by roasting the kernels a little more. If the smell is absent then Argan oil may have lost its properties and if it smells anything other than the typical nutty smell then it has turned rancid. You may also find pleasant-smelling Argan oil and that is because that Argan oil has been processed. This is not Argan oil in its purest form.
2. Texture
Argan oil has a smooth and fine texture which absorbs right into your skin once you apply it. If it is too watery, dense, or sticky then it is not pure Argan oil. Once you apply Argan oil, it should relieve your skin and that is the true test of pure Argan oil.
3. Colour
It is golden-yellowish in colour. If it is Argan oil that is supposed to be used for cooking then it could be brownish rather than yellowish. This oil can be stripped of its benefits if it comes in contact with heat, pollution, UV rays, etc. It is preferred to opt for dark coloured bottles to store Argan oil in a dry place away from heat.
What are the side effects of Argan oil?
They do not have any specific side effects as such. When applied topically, there are no adverse reactions. However, those who have nut allergies may want to stay away from Argan oil. If you are afraid that this oil can block your pores then rest assured, that this is a safe option. Argan oil is rated zero on the comedogenic scale which means it does not clog pores. We love how it just slips right into your skin leaving your skin as it is instead of making it feel oily. To conclude, Argan oil is a safe oil to be used in your skincare, haircare, and body care routine.
Summary
Argan oil justifies the title it has been given- ‘Liquid gold’ since it is one of those perfect oils that can be used to improve your skin health. Given the lack of side effects, Argan oil can be picked by any skin type. Pure Argan oil can alone run the show for your face, hair, and body so it is one of those multi-functional oils. If you find yourself with more than one empty bottle of Argan oil, don’t blame us, we warned you!
- Divya Salvi
